At the end of 2003, he had been capped 68 times for the France national team, which was the record for a French prop until Sylvain Marconnet earned his 69th one on 4 February 2007.

It seemed clear that Califano's international career was over, but he made a shock come-back as he was called to play against New Zealand on 2 and 9 June 2007.

He has played second fiddle to props Nick Wood and Carlos Nieto in his time at Gloucester RFC.

His versatility meant he received most of his appearances for the club off the bench.

On 21 February 2008, Califano announced his intentions to retire and the end of the 2007/2008 season.